Buzzing

I've grown runner beans in the back garden over the years with mixed results.
Yesterday while it was sunny, i was on the allotment (picking baskets of beans) and it occurred to me that there were dozens and dozens of buzzing happy bees, wasps and other chappies all over the plants.
Hence no black fly and great pollination.
The good open aspect coupled with wild flower fringes makes all the difference.
At home i never get quite the same buzzing attendance.
I'll plant a few more lavender plants etc at home next year!

 

How fantastic! I was plagued by black fly this year. I've already decided that im going to take more care with the runners next year and plant lots more, in a bigger space, with bigger stakes They're a firm favourite here!

 

Yes Emily,... Runner beans are a firm favourite with me too!
The few that i planted at home this year did get a black fly attack. Whilst at the allotments they are squeaky clean.
(plenty in the freezer)
I reckon that with all the perenial flowers down there, the insect balance is much better to combat the aphids. We've got 'echinops' 'agastache' 'comfrey' etc to draw them in.
The other good feature is a pond. I installed a small one during April as many of the other plot holders have them.
I'm convinced our croaky friends help control slugs.
I grow all my veg from seed, and they do well in the conservatory, but as soon as they go outside, butterflies and moths are homing in.
I've lost a few pak choi, and spring cabbage to them.
I've started some more and I'll net them well.
Once i transfer them to the allotment they'll be fine, and of course they are big enough to shrug off minor attacks